A Vision Born From Experience

From our founder, Leigh Esau, "I am a product of the foster care system and my husband and I fostered over 20 children in our 13 years as foster parents. Through my experience I became painfully aware how very little has been done to focus on those first hours of a child entering into foster care. Because of my life experience, I am uniquely qualified to share my expertise in helping children transition into foster care. This includes providing a safe Haven, a meal and new clothes - simple things that speak dignity into the lives of children in the midst of trauma."

 

foster care boy nervous about the transition into foster care

Services

Choice and Compassion for Youth in Crisis

We are passionate about restoring dignity to foster youth in crisis. We bring the joy of choice through mobile shopping experiences. About 2,000 children enter Nebraska's foster care system each year. We travel across the state providing opportunities for eligible youth to personally select a complete seasonal wardrobe, hygiene and comfort items that feel like them while in a respectful and dignified setting.

  • We provide up to 5 NEW outfits (tops, bottoms, shoes, all the essentials) during each Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter season for as long as the child remains in foster care
  • We serve all across the state of Nebraska using our mobile closet to go into the communities and lower the barriers of access
  • We provide additional support resources to families navigating the road of foster care

The Foster Care Closet's Guiding Values

  • We treat people with dignity
    • We use words that build, we listen to understand, and we serve with excellence
    • Everyone has value. It is Not earned or based on situation or appearance (youth, parents, caseworkers, team members, volunteers and donors)
    • We don't pity our clients, we see people for who they are not their circumstances
  • We take responsibility
    • We have an ownership mentality and don't place blame
    • We are committed to the cause. We work to build connections and resources within our communities
    • We find a way to solve or improve the problem in front of us
  • We are a team
    • We have open and honest communication
    • Everyone's role matters. We aim to be present and give and receive help
    • We celebrate wins and we celebrate each other